Cruise Fan Here (Even If I Skip the Shows and the Casino)

As I write this, I’m sailing through Japan aboard the Diamond Princess. The ship’s a little dated, but I have to say — it’s spotless, comfortable, and full of friendly faces from all over the world. And while I’m not exactly running to the evening shows or trying my luck in the casino, I’m still completely enjoying the experience.

That’s the beauty of cruising — you can make it what you want. Some people love the stage productions, trivia games, or late-night karaoke. Me? I love watching the coastline drift by with a glass of wine, catching the sunrise over the water, and stepping off the ship each morning to explore a new Japanese port.

Cruising, to me, is all about ease and discovery. You unpack once, and the world comes to you — from bustling cities like Kobe or Nagasaki to peaceful seaside towns you might never have found otherwise.

Of course, there are a few realities worth mentioning. Weather can change your itinerary (Mother Nature doesn’t always check the schedule), and yes, you’re sharing the ship with a few thousand fellow travelers — some of whom seem to have boundless enthusiasm for trivia. But if you can go with the flow, it’s a wonderfully relaxing way to see the world.

So even if I’m not front-row at the magic show or spinning the roulette wheel, I’m perfectly happy cruising along, camera in hand, thinking about where the ship will take me next.

Cheers,

Karen

Diamond Princess Japan 2025